Team Wolfbird Triumphs at ‘On the Spot’ Competition, Securing Las Vegas Creative LIAisons Slots

Insights from LIA Young Creative Competition 2026

In the dynamic world of advertising and creativity, young talent often stands out with fresh ideas and innovative approaches. The London International Awards (LIA) recently hosted the 'On the Spot' Young Creative Competition in Singapore, where emerging creatives under the age of 30 showcased their skills in a live challenge. Let's delve into the exciting developments and key takeaways from this vibrant event.

Unleashing Creativity Under Pressure

• Team Wolfbird, comprised of Su Ann Yip and Sean Low, secured top honors by triumphing over 23 competing teams in a high-energy contest. Their win earned them a coveted spot in the prestigious Creative LIAisons Global coaching and learning academy, providing them with unparalleled industry exposure and mentorship opportunities.
• The runners-up, Joo Xuan Chong and Phoebe Ting from Team Joojubee, also impressed the judges and earned a place in the Virtual Coaching programme, where they will benefit from personalized mentoring by seasoned professionals.

This competition, spearheaded by Chief Creative Officer Aaron Koh of GOVT VCCP, challenged participants to tackle a live brief from LEGO within a tight one-hour timeframe. The fast-paced nature of the event aimed to simulate real-world agency scenarios, pushing contestants to rely on their instincts and raw talent.

A Glimpse Into the Competition Atmosphere

The intensity and excitement within the competition space were palpable, fostering a spirit of innovation and quick thinking. Aaron Koh emphasized the importance of eliminating overthinking and embracing rapid decision-making, qualities essential in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.

Khairul Mondzi, an Executive Creative Director at BBH Singapore and a jury member, praised the competition format for its rigor and efficacy. The deliberate focus on concise evaluation criteria ensured a deep dive into each submission, promoting thoughtful analysis over mere checklist compliance.

Celebrating Talent and Innovation

Laurissa Levy, the Creative LIAisons & Global Initiative Director at LIA, commended the diverse pool of talent showcased during the competition. Despite the time constraints, the teams demonstrated creativity and ingenuity in their presentations, earning accolades for their imaginative solutions.

Barbara Levy, President of LIA, expressed gratitude for the event's success and highlighted the invaluable support from partners and sponsors. The involvement of industry experts in mentoring the next generation of creatives reflects a shared commitment to nurturing talent and fostering growth.

Looking ahead, the onsite Creative LIAisons programme in Las Vegas promises an immersive learning experience alongside the LIA judging sessions, while the Virtual Coaching programme will continue to provide guidance and support to aspiring creatives throughout 2026.

As the advertising landscape continues to evolve, platforms like the LIA Young Creative Competition serve as catalysts for innovation and professional development, shaping a vibrant future for the industry's rising stars.